Together with a local partner organisation, we conduct eye tests on site and make glasses directly.
At the schools and institutions we have visited, many schoolchildren have so far had no access to an eye test or a pair of glasses. The consequences show at school, in everyday life and in their personal development.
Schoolchildren who cannot see well are quickly considered inattentive or slow learners. Yet sometimes only one thing is missing: a suitable pair of glasses. Without an eye test, the cause often goes unnoticed.
We go directly to schools and institutions, carry out eye tests, determine the suitable prescription values and make matching glasses. If an ophthalmological examination is required, we refer to suitable local services.
A suitable pair of glasses makes visible what previously stayed blurred.
With an eye test, we check whether there is a refractive error and whether the child needs glasses.
We determine the prescription values that enable the child to achieve the best possible visual acuity.
The lenses are ground to fit the frame, fitted and then checked.
When handing over the new glasses, we check fit, comfort and visual impression.
Insights into our work – from the first encounter to concrete help. To protect the people shown, all names have been changed.
Before our eye test, Majid's vision was severely impaired. Without glasses, he achieved visual acuity of about 20 %. With his individually fitted glasses, he now reaches 100 % and can clearly recognize faces, writing and details.
Latifa was very shy and could hardly make anything out. Her visual acuity was only about 10 %. With her new glasses she reached 85 %. When she could suddenly see clearly, tears of joy followed.
As of July 2026
The figures are based on our mission and eye test records. Behind every number there is a schoolchild or a young person and a concrete change made possible by good eyesight.
Regional and trade publications have also reported on our work. The articles reflect the views of the respective editorial teams.
Gülsüm Bayrakli talks about how Lichtblick Afrika began, her work as an optician in Zanzibar and the importance of a reliable local electricity supply.
optikernetz.de
External interview in German; opens in a new tab.
An article by the Witten local desk about our work in Zanzibar. It is written in German.
waz.de
The link leads to the WAZ website. The editorial team there is responsible for its content and availability; access may be subject to a charge. Lichtblick Afrika e.V. does not adopt the content as its own.
Donations support eye tests, lenses, frames, workshop materials and the delivery of our work on the ground.